The early church was known for its unity. In the early days of the church in Jerusalem, thousands were coming to know the Risen Lord as their Savior. The Spirit of God was moving in and through them. Acts 4 records this incredible time in the life of the early church in these words, “those who believed were of one heart and soul.”

How does living in the Spirit help us to leverage our lives?

The Spirit aligns us with God.When we open our hearts, mind and very being to the authority of God we fall in alignment with His will. As a result He is able to work in and through us to impact our life and the lives of others.

The Spirit aligns us with other believers.When our focus is on God, and not ourselves, we tend to see things from His perspective. Our view of others is filled with grace, forgiveness and love, just like our Heavenly Father loves us.

The Spirit aligns us with the needs of the community. In Acts 4 we read how the Believers made sure that people’s needs were met. Giving was a pleasure and lives were changed because of good stewardship of resources.

How can we live in the Spirit…“for it is God who works in you, both for to will and work for His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:13

The Believers in Acts 4 prayed together. Prayer by itself is powerful and when we pray with others the Spirit of God moves among us giving us direction and courage to face the obstacles or life.

The Believers fellowshipped together. In our description of the early church we find them eating together as well as worshiping together. They told the story of the Resurrected Lord to others as well as sharing among themselves.

The Believers “had been with Jesus”. This reference to Peter and John in Acts 4: 13, captures the idea of ever believer being with Jesus. Abiding in Christ is paramount to being filled with the Spirit. “There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”Acts 4:12

Recognizing the Sovereignty of God in our lives should help us to be keenly aware that “our lives are not our own, for we were bought with a price” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Each waking moment you know whether God is controlling you or whether you are living in your selfish nature. Arrogance, judgmental attitudes and just plain self-centered behavior are indicators of a worldly Christian. The Holy Spirit can transform our beliefs and behavior as we allow Him to reign in us. Ask yourself “who is in control of my life right now? God or me?” Whichever your answer pause to praise Him and thank Him that His Holy Spirit can dwell and rule in your heart and life as one of His children.